American Express has launched a new lounge concept designed for travelers in a hurry. 

Called Sidecar by Centurion Lounge, this premium mini-lounge will open at Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in 2026. It is built for speed, with a 90-minute pre-departure entry limit, a curated menu, and a speakeasy-style vibe.

If you have ever arrived at the airport with limited time and skipped the Centurion Lounge because of crowds or a tight boarding window, Sidecar may be your perfect solution. 

This new space offers high-quality food and drinks in a streamlined setting – no showers, no nap zones, just what you need and nothing more.

Let’s break down what Sidecar means for travelers and why it is one of the most exciting new airport lounge ideas in years.

What Is Sidecar by Centurion Lounge

Sidecar is a fresh twist on the traditional lounge experience. 

It is a “fast-lounge” concept for select American Express card holders with less time to spare. The space is designed to be quick, stylish, and efficient. Think high-end bar meets first-class airport lounge.

Travelers will be allowed access only within 90 minutes of boarding time. This helps reduce lounge overcrowding and makes the space more relaxing for those who need a shorter stay. 

It is perfect for travelers who still want to enjoy quality food and a great cocktail before takeoff – without the chaos.

Features Of The Amex Sidecar Lounge

Here is what makes Sidecar stand out:

• Quick Access: Entry is limited to 90 minutes before departure.
• Curated Menu: Expect premium small plates and craft cocktails, served quickly.
• Stylish Setting: Inspired by speakeasies, Sidecar will offer a cozy, upscale vibe.
• Essential Amenities Only: You will find Wi‑Fi, restrooms, and comfortable seating – but no showers or long-stay features.

This lounge is not trying to replace the traditional Centurion Lounge. Instead, it adds an option for travelers who want quality over quantity.

Why Start In Las Vegas

Las Vegas is where the Centurion Lounge journey began. 

The first Centurion Lounge opened there in 2013, and the Sidecar launch in 2026 brings the innovation full circle. 

Las Vegas is a high-traffic airport, especially for business travelers and vacationers flying in for quick trips. With short layovers and fast gate movements, the airport is the ideal place to test this new concept.

The Las Vegas terminal also experiences frequent lounge crowding. By offering Sidecar as an alternative, American Express can ease congestion while still providing top-tier service.

Amex Sidecar Lounge Dining Experience

The new Sidecar lounge will feature a rotating selection of menu items from the Culinary Collective, a team of award-winning chefs curated by American Express. 

These include:

• Mashama Bailey – Paprika Chicken Thighs
• Kwame Onwuachi – Suya-Style Short Ribs
• Mike Solomonov – Pomegranate Glazed Salmon
• Sarah Grueneberg – Lemony Orzo with Parmesan

These dishes will not be made-to-order. Instead, they will be pre-prepared for fast grab-and-go access, similar to an upscale tasting bar.

In addition, cocktails crafted by mixologist Harrison Ginsberg will be featured at Sidecar and Centurion Lounges alike. 

Think classics with a twist, ready in minutes.

How To Access Amex Sidecar by Centurion Lounge

Sidecar follows the same access rules as standard Centurion Lounges. Entry is available to the following card holders:

• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• Centurion® Card from American Express
• Business Centurion® Card from American Express

You must have a boarding pass for a flight departing within 90 minutes to enter. The lounge will not be open for arrivals or long stays.

This entry rule keeps the lounge efficient and prevents long-term crowding.

The Future Of Travel Lounge Innovation

American Express is not just building another lounge. Sidecar by Centurion Lounge shows how lounge design is evolving. 

Travelers want speed, quality, and comfort without long lines or wasted time. This new concept responds to those needs.

It also shows that American Express is listening. By creating a high-end option for travelers with short layovers or tight schedules, they are making airport time more enjoyable for more people.

With Las Vegas set as the first location and more likely to follow, Sidecar may soon become a familiar favorite for those who value premium service on the go.

Final Thoughts

Sidecar by Centurion Lounge is more than a side project. 

It is a smart, stylish solution to modern travel needs. For those moments when time is short but expectations are high, Sidecar delivers the essentials – done exceptionally well.

It also reflects a broader shift in the airport lounge industry. 

With Capital One launching its own quick-service concept – Capital One Landing – at Washington National (DCA), American Express is responding with its own take on fast, elevated lounge experiences. 

Sidecar shows that even in a crowded lounge market, innovation is still possible – and necessary.

Stay tuned for the Las Vegas opening in 2026.

Kevin Zanes